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Davis has seven first round stoppages on his resume (Photo courtesy of Bellator).

U.S. Marine to Compete in Light Heavyweight Tournament

The upcoming Bellator Fighting Championships Light Heavyweight Tournament continues to take shape, with the promotion announcing the inclusion of Chris Davis (10-2) to the competition. A four year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Davis now sets his sights on becoming the first-ever Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion, who will also take home a $100,000 purse as well.

“Chris has a great opportunity in front of him in this 205 Tournament,” Bellator Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney stated. “Chris has never been out of the second round in every one of his 10 wins, so his fights are exciting, and he has a put it on the line mentality every time he steps into the cage.”

Davis, who resides in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has competed for a variety of Mixed Martial Arts promotions since becoming a professional fighter in 2008. Currently riding a three-match winning streak, he now looks to impress the MMA world by making the most of the opportunity he has been presented.

“I'm looking forward to being part of Bellator's first ever light heavyweight tournament,” Davis said. “I welcome the thought of having to fight as often as I will. I'm going to just stay in shape and train all the time. I think it will help accelerate my learning curve and help me to get better.”

Davis has a rather unique story as to what turned him onto MMA. While working a sales job, he approached a local gym about purchasing advertising and ended up exchanging ad space for training sessions. He was immediately hooked by the sport and quickly took his first professional bout.

“I knew I was a champion after going out there and winning my first fight following just three months of training,” Davis remarked. “Now, when I go out there and get my hand raised with Bellator, that's when everyone else will know I’m a true champion.”

With seven first round stoppages and having never been the distance in his career, Davis has quickly established himself as an accomplished finisher in MMA.

“I want to overwhelm my opponents,” he commented. “I want them to feel within the first 45 seconds that they are well beyond their means, and they shouldn't be in there with me. That's the pace I go for.”

With Davis now on the roster, three names have been announced as competitors in the upcoming light heavyweight tournament. Others confirmed for the competition are Nik Fekete and Daniel Gracie.